Passport to the World Event Opens a Dialog for Welcoming and Boldly Serving Those in Need
Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSS/NCA) culminated its 100th year of community service at Passport to the World on March 1, 2018, an exclusive event celebrating the diversity, hopes and dreams of the DC community. Held at the stunning, American Institute of Architects building, the event attracted hundreds of LSS/NCA supporters and partners, as well as a rich diversity of those interested in standing up for those served daily by LSS/NCA, including refugees, immigrants, foster care and adoptive families and those marginalized and stigmatized by society.
Passport to the World comes at a time when those served by LSS/NCA, in particular refugees and immigrants are once again in the political spotlight. The event served as a poignant reminder of the people and families LSS/NCA has supported for the past century through the combined efforts of its staff, volunteers, local congregations and partnerships with service organizations and the private sector.
“Despite attempts to cast refugees and immigrants as negatively impacting our society, we know better,” explains Christine Connell, Chief Executive Officer of LSS/NCA. “Passport to the World was our opportunity to celebrate the diversity that makes us a more tolerant, understanding and diverse society. We stand boldly with those who came before us and in solidarity with those who will take us into our next century of service.”
In 2017, LSS/NCA helped more than 1,600 refugee and immigrant families settle into their new country, finding new homes and employment and providing much needed services and support. The organization also found families for nearly 100 neglected and abused children in foster care, and provided supportive services to over 100 youth and adults affected by HIV/AIDS.
Passport to the World attracted more than 200 guests and supporters of the LSS/NCA mission, including notable area leaders and personalities, such as: Council Member Brandon Todd, Council Member Vincent Gray, and Diane Rehm.
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